Purdue University has decided to allow a donor to reference “God’s physical laws” on a plaque recognizing the alumnus’ donation to the university.

The West Lafayette university will avoid a First Amendment fight between itself and engineering graduate Michael McCracken, who alleged that Purdue was violating his rights by not allowing him to reference God on a plaque commemorating his parents. The plaque was offered after McCracken made a $12,500 donation to the university in 2012.

The argument came to a head last week when Purdue’s legal counsel, Steve Schultz, said Purdue’s status as a public institution opened the door to a costly and lengthy legal battle if Purdue accepted McCracken’s proposed language for the plaque, which referenced “God’s physical laws.”

“My wife and I are joyful that we’ve been able to reach a resolution on this matter with Purdue University,” McCracken said in a statement.

The finalized plaque language is as follows:

Dr. Michael McCracken: “To all those who seek to better the world through the understanding of God’s physical laws and innovation of practical solutions.” Dr. Michael and Mrs. Cindy McCracken present this plaque in honor of Dr. William “Ed” and Glenda McCracken and all those similarly inspired to make the world a better place.

In a statement released Wednesday, Purdue said the university never disagreed with McCracken. It was cognizant only of the potential tricky legal situation.

The initial news that McCracken’s proposed plaque language had been nixed incited anger from the Purdue community, many of whom said the McCrackens should take back their donation.

Others said Purdue should give the money back and not post the inscription.